Hammer won't close all the way

[billjoe]

I have an original SSK 6.5JDJ barrel on a newer 4xxxxx contender frame that won't fire.  The hammer doesn't contact the firing pin when the breech is closed, with or without a round loaded in the chamber.  It will stop just short of hitting the pin causing a misfire.  I tried a different barrel with that same frame and it works fine.  I tried the JDJ barrel on a different frame and have the same problem.  So it has to be something with the barrel.  And the odd part about it is, I was shooting the JDJ in the same frame a few weeks ago to fire form some rounds and it worked fine.  What could have changed?  I thought maybe it was a headspace problem when I reloaded the fire formed cases, but then discovered that the hammer won't close all the way down even when the barrel is unloaded.  Any tips would be great.  Deer hunting is in 2 weeks.  Thanks.

BJ

[Bug]

I would drop the trigger group, and check the interlock/butterfly screw. It could have backed out on you, since you say that this barrel/frame combo worked in the past. If that is the problem, a dab of Loctite (blue) is in order. While you have it apart, it would be a good time for a thorough cleaning, as well. You may have gotten a bit of debris where it shouldn't be. You can check engagement of the lugs at this time, too. Don't forget to clean the lugs & recesses on the barrel, too, since you state this problem follows the barrel, when switched to a different frame. It is likely that the lugs on your barrel were bordering on being too thick for the frame which worked previously. A light stoning may be in order. Hope this helps,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Bug.